Course Descriptions

101. Window on Women’s and Gender Studies. (1h)

An opportunity to experience and reflect analytically in writing on the diverse cultural and intellectual life of Wake Forest, with an emphasis on women’s and gender studies’ events and topics. Pass/Fail Only.

116. Race and Ethnic Diversity in America. (3h)

Different race and ethnic experiences are examined through an institutional approach that focuses on religion, work, schooling, marriage patterns, and culture from cross-cultural perspectives. Also listed as AES 151.

221. Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies. (3h)

Interdisciplinary course, taught by women’s and gender studies faculty representing at least two fields, that integrates materials from the humanities and the sciences. Topics include critical methods and practical solutions, history and theory of women’s and gender studies, women in culture and society, and cross-cultural issues of gender, ethnicity, social class, disability, and sexual orientation. (CD)

321. Research Seminar in Women’s and Gender Studies. (3h)

A capstone, research-centered study of questions raised by women’s and gender studies on an interdisciplinary topics, such as women’s health issues, international women’s issues, lesbian and gay culture and theory, women and the arts, etc. May be repeated for credit if topic differs.

377. Special Topics. (1.5h,2.5h,3h)

Includes such women’s and gender studies topics as gender issues in the twenty-first century, Jewish-American women writers, African-American women writers, women and aging, critical approaches to women’s issues, and the emergence of feminist thought. May be repeated for credit if topic differs.

377E Special Topic: Human rights- Theory and Practice (3hr)

Course focuses on human rights documents, as defined and promoted by the United Nations, and will examine what can be done on local levels through service learning. This course has been approved for the WGS Major Public Engagement Requirement. Approved for INS Global Thematic Studies (cultural studies).

377J Special Topic: Feminism, Advocacy and Policymaking (3hr)

This course will explore and analyze public policies through case studies of how feminists have influenced transnational and national policy making. We will examine how feminists groups set their agendas, how decision-making takes place, and how public policy is influenced by gendered social and political issues. Same as AES 390. Approved for WGS Major Public Engagement Requirement. Approved for INS Global Thematic Studies (cultural studies).

396. Independent Study. (1-3h)

Independent projects in women’s and gender studies which either continue study begun in regular courses or develop new areas of interest. A maximum of 3 hours may apply to the minor. By prearrangement.

397. Internships in Women’s and Gender Studies. (1.5h-3h)

Practicum opportunities for work and for research in conjunction with a local women’s or justice organization, such as Family Services, NOW, N.C. Center for Laws Affecting Women, AIDS Care Service, etc. A maximum of 3 hours may apply to the minor. Pass/fail only.

100. R.A.D.: Rape Aggression Defense. (1h)

Develops and enhances the options of self-defense, including basic physical self-defense tactics and risk reduction and avoidance, so they may become viable considerations for any woman who is attached. Required readings include social science research on violence against women. Pass/fail only.